Belgian tanker owner Transpetrol is entering the LR1 segment for the first time with an order for two 75,000-dwt product tankers at China’s Yangzijiang Shipbuilding.

The two “Super Eco” newbuildings are scheduled for delivery in the first and second quarters of 2030, respectively, Transpetrol said.

The company has not disclosed the contract value, engine specification or propulsion arrangement. It said only that the vessels would incorporate a range of energy-saving technologies designed to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

Filling the gap between MR and LR2

The order adds a new vessel class to Transpetrol’s tanker portfolio.

The company already operates product tankers ranging from MR tonnage to larger LR2 vessels, while also maintaining exposure to the gas carrier market. The 75,000-dwt LR1s will sit between those existing tanker segments, giving Transpetrol greater flexibility in matching cargo sizes and trading routes.

The move forms part of a wider fleet renewal programme that has accelerated during 2026.

Earlier this year, Transpetrol ordered two 90,000-cbm very large gas carriers at South Korea’s HD Hyundai Samho. The dual-fuel vessels, capable of carrying both LPG and ammonia, are scheduled for delivery in the third and fourth quarters of 2028.

At the same time, three approximately 114,800-dwt LR2 tankers previously ordered at Hyundai Vietnam Shipyard — TP Promise, TP Progress and TP Prospect — have been joining the fleet during 2026.

The latest LR1 order therefore extends a renewal programme spanning both liquid bulk and gas shipping rather than representing a standalone expansion into one tanker segment.

Yangzijiang builds LR1 track record

For Yangzijiang Shipbuilding, the Transpetrol deal adds another international owner to its growing LR1 customer base.

The Chinese shipbuilder delivered its first 75,000-dwt LR1 tanker, Metro Mistral, to Greek owner Metrostar in July 2025. The design is a new-generation Panamax tanker capable of transporting crude oil, refined products and certain chemical cargoes while meeting Phase 3 requirements under the Energy Efficiency Design Index.

Yangzijiang has since secured further LR1 business from Greek owners including Dynacom and Evalend, establishing the 74,000-75,000-dwt class as an increasingly important part of its tanker orderbook.

Transpetrol’s decision to take delivery of its new ships in 2030 also points to a longer-term approach to fleet renewal rather than a response to short-term tanker earnings.

The final contract price, detailed propulsion configuration and any charter coverage for the two vessels have not been disclosed.